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Queenmakers #1
Until Death
Peaky Blinders meets God of Malice in this new dark forced marriage mafia romance from New York Times & USA Today bestselling author Nicole Blanchard.
I never planned to be a mafia bride.
But when my sister is forced to marry Aiden O’Connor—the Irish mafia’s most lethal enforcer—to settle our father’s debt, I do the unthinkable.
I make him marry me instead.
Becoming his wife confirms all my worst fears.
He’s ruthless, possessive, and unhinged.
And now I’m his. To control, to punish, to keep.
Until death do us part.
When he takes his revenge in the dark, pinning me down, whispering filthy threats against my lips, making me beg when I swore I never would, one thing becomes terrifyingly
I may survive this marriage, but I won’t survive him.
Until Death is a fast-paced dark mafia romance with a morally gray characters. Some themes and scenes may be disturbing to readers. Please check the TWs at the beginning of the book.
Tropes
Tropes
• Jealous / Possessive & OTT Hero
• Morally Black Antihero
• Morally Grey Heroine
• Forced Marriage
• Irish Mafia
• “My Wife”
• “Good Boy”
• Touch Him/Her & Die
I never planned to be a mafia bride.
But when my sister is forced to marry Aiden O’Connor—the Irish mafia’s most lethal enforcer—to settle our father’s debt, I do the unthinkable.
I make him marry me instead.
Becoming his wife confirms all my worst fears.
He’s ruthless, possessive, and unhinged.
And now I’m his. To control, to punish, to keep.
Until death do us part.
When he takes his revenge in the dark, pinning me down, whispering filthy threats against my lips, making me beg when I swore I never would, one thing becomes terrifyingly
I may survive this marriage, but I won’t survive him.
Until Death is a fast-paced dark mafia romance with a morally gray characters. Some themes and scenes may be disturbing to readers. Please check the TWs at the beginning of the book.
Tropes
Tropes
• Jealous / Possessive & OTT Hero
• Morally Black Antihero
• Morally Grey Heroine
• Forced Marriage
• Irish Mafia
• “My Wife”
• “Good Boy”
• Touch Him/Her & Die
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 11, 2025
511 people are currently reading
5792 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Blanchard
63 books2,086 followersNicole Blanchard is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the TikTok-viral dark romance Toxic, a wildly addictive bestseller that has sold over 90,000 copies worldwide. Known for her morally gray antiheroes, off-the-charts heat, and jaw-dropping twists, Nicole’s stories drag readers deep into love’s darkest corners—where no one escapes unscarred.
When she’s not crafting twisted love stories that break your heart and then heal it, you can find her soaking up beach sun with a glass of sweet tea, getting inked, or running a farm full of lovable misfit animals.
You may learn more about Nicole and her work at www.authornicoleblanchard.com. Join her mailing list for updates at http://www.authornicoleblanchard.com/...
When she’s not crafting twisted love stories that break your heart and then heal it, you can find her soaking up beach sun with a glass of sweet tea, getting inked, or running a farm full of lovable misfit animals.
You may learn more about Nicole and her work at www.authornicoleblanchard.com. Join her mailing list for updates at http://www.authornicoleblanchard.com/...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 383 reviews
January 15, 2026
I love a good mafia romance, and this was a page turner! Character build was phenomenal. I just loved Adrian he had so many layers, was harsh, protective, and possessive! Catriona was fierce, strong, loving, stubborn! The banter and the chemistry that they denied between them they had met their match in each other! Irish Mafia lifestyle, family betrayals, slow burn forced marriage romance you don't want to miss!
January 19, 2026
4.5 stars this was so good!!
January 30, 2026
3.75/5⭐
مشاعري اتجاه رواية هذي مختلطه حبيتها وما حبيتها في نفس الوقت
سرد قصة كان ضعيفة مش حاجة واو و شخصيات خاصة شخصية mmc أيدن ما لفتت نظري في اول كنت اشوفه بدون كريزما و هيبة وهو فعلا كذا لانو fmc كاتريونا تمشي عليه كلمتها و حرفيا هي مسيطرة وهو عاجبه ذا تخيلو كانت تصفقه دائما كفوف وهو ما يحس حتى ب اهانة تجيه نشوة من فعل هذا ههههههه كل ما أتذكر أفطس ضحك
وبعد اسبوعين من زواجهم هي مش طايقته و في كل فرصة تهرب منه واخذت غرفة منفصله عنه و فضحتو في حفلة استقبال وقت صفقته كف و صورتهم صحافة و نتشر في كل مكان و تبهدلو هو ما عصب ولا زعل العكس هي يلي زعلت لانو صفقته و صوروهم وهو صار يرضي فيها 😂ذا مخرفن على اخر... ايه كمان بعد اسبوعين زي ماقولت من زواجهم راح وشم أسمها في اصابع ايديه لثنين بس عشان يستفزها و تعطيه اهتمام حتى لو كان بهدلة 😭😂😂 رجل احلامي خضوع عنده يدرس وهي جاحده عصبت انو وشم اسمها وسوتله دراما لازم تشيله و كذا... وكمان لأنو حرمتو من جسمها و ماتستسلم ل اغرائته —هو يلي يغريها مش العكس— راح اعطها نص ثروته لا ياخذ رضاها و يركع له و يتوسل وهي تأمره وينزل يبوس رجليها و اصابع رجليها هههههههه ويعملها وهو مبهور المازوخي.. مسخرة وربي مش عارفه حدد اذا عجبني وضع او قرفانه منه المهم اول مرة اقرا عن رجل مافيا خروف لدرجة هذي وهي مسيطرة و رافسة نعمة من الاخر تتسلط عليه بكل طريقة مايقدر عليها غير ربي رغم ما بده الا حبها وشوية إهتمام المحروم... حبيت شخصيتها وفي نفس وقت كانت تستفزني لأنو حاسبه روحها ماتغلط وتقدر تعمل كل شي وما تحتاج حدا وما الى ذلك ماشيه بعقلية —أنا افضل من رجل —فمينست برو ماكس حبيت إعتمادها على ذاتها لكن كانت مأوفره فيه كثير خاصة لما تختزل أيدن و تحب تهيمن عليه 😂
كانت هي ريد فلاج و ايدن جرين فلاج محترم مساحتها و عاشق شخصيتها برغم هي و لسانها زفت وهو اتفهم خضوعه لأنو نص حياته عدها خضوع ل رجل يلي قتل أبوها و متزوج أمه اذا أيدن ما نفذ أومره كان يعاقب أمه مكانه لا يخليه خاضع و مهان ولعبة عنده.. ف إنجذابه ل سطوة كاتريونا مفهوم بالنسبة لي.. وحتى تصرفات كاتريونا وحبها ل سيطرة مفهوم لثنين ناتج تربيتهم و ظروف نشأتهم.
مشاعري اتجاه رواية هذي مختلطه حبيتها وما حبيتها في نفس الوقت
سرد قصة كان ضعيفة مش حاجة واو و شخصيات خاصة شخصية mmc أيدن ما لفتت نظري في اول كنت اشوفه بدون كريزما و هيبة وهو فعلا كذا لانو fmc كاتريونا تمشي عليه كلمتها و حرفيا هي مسيطرة وهو عاجبه ذا تخيلو كانت تصفقه دائما كفوف وهو ما يحس حتى ب اهانة تجيه نشوة من فعل هذا ههههههه كل ما أتذكر أفطس ضحك
وبعد اسبوعين من زواجهم هي مش طايقته و في كل فرصة تهرب منه واخذت غرفة منفصله عنه و فضحتو في حفلة استقبال وقت صفقته كف و صورتهم صحافة و نتشر في كل مكان و تبهدلو هو ما عصب ولا زعل العكس هي يلي زعلت لانو صفقته و صوروهم وهو صار يرضي فيها 😂ذا مخرفن على اخر... ايه كمان بعد اسبوعين زي ماقولت من زواجهم راح وشم أسمها في اصابع ايديه لثنين بس عشان يستفزها و تعطيه اهتمام حتى لو كان بهدلة 😭😂😂 رجل احلامي خضوع عنده يدرس وهي جاحده عصبت انو وشم اسمها وسوتله دراما لازم تشيله و كذا... وكمان لأنو حرمتو من جسمها و ماتستسلم ل اغرائته —هو يلي يغريها مش العكس— راح اعطها نص ثروته لا ياخذ رضاها و يركع له و يتوسل وهي تأمره وينزل يبوس رجليها و اصابع رجليها هههههههه ويعملها وهو مبهور المازوخي.. مسخرة وربي مش عارفه حدد اذا عجبني وضع او قرفانه منه المهم اول مرة اقرا عن رجل مافيا خروف لدرجة هذي وهي مسيطرة و رافسة نعمة من الاخر تتسلط عليه بكل طريقة مايقدر عليها غير ربي رغم ما بده الا حبها وشوية إهتمام المحروم... حبيت شخصيتها وفي نفس وقت كانت تستفزني لأنو حاسبه روحها ماتغلط وتقدر تعمل كل شي وما تحتاج حدا وما الى ذلك ماشيه بعقلية —أنا افضل من رجل —فمينست برو ماكس حبيت إعتمادها على ذاتها لكن كانت مأوفره فيه كثير خاصة لما تختزل أيدن و تحب تهيمن عليه 😂
كانت هي ريد فلاج و ايدن جرين فلاج محترم مساحتها و عاشق شخصيتها برغم هي و لسانها زفت وهو اتفهم خضوعه لأنو نص حياته عدها خضوع ل رجل يلي قتل أبوها و متزوج أمه اذا أيدن ما نفذ أومره كان يعاقب أمه مكانه لا يخليه خاضع و مهان ولعبة عنده.. ف إنجذابه ل سطوة كاتريونا مفهوم بالنسبة لي.. وحتى تصرفات كاتريونا وحبها ل سيطرة مفهوم لثنين ناتج تربيتهم و ظروف نشأتهم.
January 8, 2026
I read Little Death before and I’m so glad I did. It really helped me understand their intimate connection. I loved the FMC and MMC.
I would say this MMC isn’t a psychopath type but he is definitely morally grey. He has a few people he cares for deeply and his loyalty runs deep for them. I would say he is more created based off his circumstances but always comes out on top to survive as the best. He may be tough but don’t let that fool you, he BEGS for her. 🤭
The FMC is such a tough cookie! I love her stubbornness and unwillingness to give up on finding the truth about her mother’s death. I also enjoy how she never whined or complained but rather tried to make the best of her situation especially her relationship with her father.
The plot twist I didn’t see coming. That dinner scene was chaos! So much happened but I didn’t fell like it was rushed.
Also the spice level is off the charts! They way he begs, the way he enjoys her stubbornness, and his aftercare was 10/10 🌶️
I would say this MMC isn’t a psychopath type but he is definitely morally grey. He has a few people he cares for deeply and his loyalty runs deep for them. I would say he is more created based off his circumstances but always comes out on top to survive as the best. He may be tough but don’t let that fool you, he BEGS for her. 🤭
The FMC is such a tough cookie! I love her stubbornness and unwillingness to give up on finding the truth about her mother’s death. I also enjoy how she never whined or complained but rather tried to make the best of her situation especially her relationship with her father.
The plot twist I didn’t see coming. That dinner scene was chaos! So much happened but I didn’t fell like it was rushed.
Also the spice level is off the charts! They way he begs, the way he enjoys her stubbornness, and his aftercare was 10/10 🌶️
January 6, 2026
ARC Read!
When I read Toxic by Nicole Blanchard, I knew that I couldn’t wait to get my hands on another one her mafia romances. I loved this! The only thing for me was towards the end with the moment that we have been waiting for… I wanted a little more, it felt just a little bit rushed and those a**holes deserved more and longer punishments 😈 but other than that it was a great read! I loveee Aiden, sexy Irish mafia boss, TATTED, will do anything for his WIFE?! Talk about SWOON worthy! I thoroughly enjoyed Aiden and Catriona’s banter, I loved his witty replies to all her questions. He had me kicking my feet and giggling 🤭 Catriona is a good headstrong FMC, she was likeable and relatable and had good character development. I love how she didn’t fall for Aiden right away, that it felt like a real enemies to lovers, more so enemies for Catriona 😏 and unless you read Little Death first you might not understand why.
Will definitely continue to recommend and can’t wait for Mara’s story!
When I read Toxic by Nicole Blanchard, I knew that I couldn’t wait to get my hands on another one her mafia romances. I loved this! The only thing for me was towards the end with the moment that we have been waiting for… I wanted a little more, it felt just a little bit rushed and those a**holes deserved more and longer punishments 😈 but other than that it was a great read! I loveee Aiden, sexy Irish mafia boss, TATTED, will do anything for his WIFE?! Talk about SWOON worthy! I thoroughly enjoyed Aiden and Catriona’s banter, I loved his witty replies to all her questions. He had me kicking my feet and giggling 🤭 Catriona is a good headstrong FMC, she was likeable and relatable and had good character development. I love how she didn’t fall for Aiden right away, that it felt like a real enemies to lovers, more so enemies for Catriona 😏 and unless you read Little Death first you might not understand why.
Will definitely continue to recommend and can’t wait for Mara’s story!
Want to read
September 8, 2025HOOK:
🍀 Irish mafia / organized crime
💍 forced marriage
🖤 morally grey heroine
🐍 morally black hero
🕸️ dub/non-con
💕 good boy
👰 “my wife”
🔥 feminine rage
🍀 Irish mafia / organized crime
💍 forced marriage
🖤 morally grey heroine
🐍 morally black hero
🕸️ dub/non-con
💕 good boy
👰 “my wife”
🔥 feminine rage
January 6, 2026
Until Death by Nicole Blanchard was a story that kept me captivated between its pages from beginning to end. Although it seemed simple at first, it gradually became more complex, stirring my curiosity more and more. Steamy and with complex, well-built characters, this story was definitely one I enjoyed.
I liked that, even though the attraction is there, that deep connection doesn’t appear right away, with Aiden not being ready to sacrifice everything for Catriona. He is very much in control and focused on his own interests, which contrasts with the fact that she allows herself, to some extent, to be vulnerable. This adds more emotion to the reading experience and prolongs the enemies to lovers atmosphere, which I really enjoyed. The intensity of the dialogue in those moments, especially, drew more than a few tears from me.
Aiden is a charming, intense character. I enjoyed getting to know him step by step and, even though we spend time in his head, I liked that we only learn what truly lay behind his decisions toward the end. What truly captivated me, though, was the FMC. Brilliantly written! You can’t place Catriona into a single category. She is so many things at once, vulnerable yet powerful above all. Though rare, I really loved the moments when she and Aiden surrender control to each other. Their interactions are delightful, each one stirring something different in me.
I also liked some of the secondary characters. Eamon added humor to the story, easily putting a smile on my face, especially when he gets on Aiden’s nerves. I would genuinely enjoy reading a story about him, and about Mara as well.
I also appreciated the touch of mystery woven into the story. Even though things seemed more than obvious at first, the plot later grows more complicated, and I found myself confused, no longer trusting the details I once thought were clues. The author managed to play with my mind, turning Until Death into a truly memorable experience.
● ● ● ● ◐
Thanks @authornicoleblanchard & @greyspromo for the ARC of this book!
I liked that, even though the attraction is there, that deep connection doesn’t appear right away, with Aiden not being ready to sacrifice everything for Catriona. He is very much in control and focused on his own interests, which contrasts with the fact that she allows herself, to some extent, to be vulnerable. This adds more emotion to the reading experience and prolongs the enemies to lovers atmosphere, which I really enjoyed. The intensity of the dialogue in those moments, especially, drew more than a few tears from me.
Aiden is a charming, intense character. I enjoyed getting to know him step by step and, even though we spend time in his head, I liked that we only learn what truly lay behind his decisions toward the end. What truly captivated me, though, was the FMC. Brilliantly written! You can’t place Catriona into a single category. She is so many things at once, vulnerable yet powerful above all. Though rare, I really loved the moments when she and Aiden surrender control to each other. Their interactions are delightful, each one stirring something different in me.
I also liked some of the secondary characters. Eamon added humor to the story, easily putting a smile on my face, especially when he gets on Aiden’s nerves. I would genuinely enjoy reading a story about him, and about Mara as well.
I also appreciated the touch of mystery woven into the story. Even though things seemed more than obvious at first, the plot later grows more complicated, and I found myself confused, no longer trusting the details I once thought were clues. The author managed to play with my mind, turning Until Death into a truly memorable experience.
● ● ● ● ◐
Thanks @authornicoleblanchard & @greyspromo for the ARC of this book!
January 9, 2026
Gosh this book had me in a chokehold…literally the entire time. Solid 4.5 ⭐️
I definitely recommend reading Little Death first - it gives you the back story of how Aiden and Cat meet which was super helpful but holy cow!! I was so hooked.
I honestly loved Aiden - he has a hard exterior but you come to see his layers. Everything he does has a motive and is well planned out until Cat crosses his path and he can’t seem to forget her.
Cat is trying to get to the bottom of a family tragedy when everyone is trying to call it an accident. Being the daughter of a governor, she has connections. Someone is out to stop her…who can she trust.
I don’t want to give too much of the story away but Cat is sooo strong willed and stubborn - I love her. She takes no crap and is probably one of only people silly enough to stand up to Aiden - this has him hooked from the first time he encountered her.
Both have past traumas that hinder their relationship and Cat wants to hate Aiden so badly - she really does but she’s the one thing he won’t lose. He tries to keep her safe but she forces his hand by making him marry her (you just have to read). They had me laughing at some of the banter back and forth. I also may have cried once or twice - there’s a twist that I really didn’t see coming but sooo good. My heart definitely felt the emotions. The spice is there, the hateful lust is there…of course some drama, violence and bloodshed (please read the triggers). I can’t wait to read the next book! Thank you @greyspromo and @authornicoleblanchard for the early read. All opinions are my own.
My favorite quotes -
“Because I’m yours. I’ve been yours since the first moment I saw you. I’ve been chasing you since that morning when I woke up and found my bed empty of you. You’re a beautiful, vicious thing, and as much as I’ve fought it, it turns out my wanting you is the one thing in this world I can’t seem to kill. So I’ve given up.”
“There’s nowhere you could run where I wouldn’t find you.”
I definitely recommend reading Little Death first - it gives you the back story of how Aiden and Cat meet which was super helpful but holy cow!! I was so hooked.
I honestly loved Aiden - he has a hard exterior but you come to see his layers. Everything he does has a motive and is well planned out until Cat crosses his path and he can’t seem to forget her.
Cat is trying to get to the bottom of a family tragedy when everyone is trying to call it an accident. Being the daughter of a governor, she has connections. Someone is out to stop her…who can she trust.
I don’t want to give too much of the story away but Cat is sooo strong willed and stubborn - I love her. She takes no crap and is probably one of only people silly enough to stand up to Aiden - this has him hooked from the first time he encountered her.
Both have past traumas that hinder their relationship and Cat wants to hate Aiden so badly - she really does but she’s the one thing he won’t lose. He tries to keep her safe but she forces his hand by making him marry her (you just have to read). They had me laughing at some of the banter back and forth. I also may have cried once or twice - there’s a twist that I really didn’t see coming but sooo good. My heart definitely felt the emotions. The spice is there, the hateful lust is there…of course some drama, violence and bloodshed (please read the triggers). I can’t wait to read the next book! Thank you @greyspromo and @authornicoleblanchard for the early read. All opinions are my own.
My favorite quotes -
“Because I’m yours. I’ve been yours since the first moment I saw you. I’ve been chasing you since that morning when I woke up and found my bed empty of you. You’re a beautiful, vicious thing, and as much as I’ve fought it, it turns out my wanting you is the one thing in this world I can’t seem to kill. So I’ve given up.”
“There’s nowhere you could run where I wouldn’t find you.”
January 9, 2026
Without a doubt I was already majorily 𝐎𝐁𝐒𝐄𝐒𝐒𝐄𝐃 with this twisted world after getting the opportunity to experience Catriona Gallagher and Aiden O’Connor’s first kinky lil’ encounter with 𝐋𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡. From that moment on I just knew that 𝐔𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐥 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡 was going to 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐒𝐔𝐌𝐄 every inch of my soul — which it absolutely 𝐅*𝐂𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆 did…and so much more!
This is the kind of story that is impossible 𝐍𝐎𝐓 to be experienced in one sitting because the moment you dive into this dark and twisted tale — your soul will undoubtedly find itself lost amongst the pages until you’ve reached the very last word. It will be IMPOSSIBLE to put down, so make sure to prepare yourself for no distractions as the real world fades away and you lose yourself completely with this addictive forced marriage Irish mafia romance where she 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒂𝒕𝒆 him and he 𝒄𝒓𝒂𝒗𝒆𝒔 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝒉𝒆𝒓…
Nicole Blanchard’s writing 𝐒𝐋𝐀𝐘𝐄𝐃 my heart and by the end I found myself sprawled out on the floor dying a painfully slow death after inhaling Catriona and Aiden’s tale — leaving me breathless and struggling to breath. Her storytelling was beautifully enchanting that it’s hard to understand why it took me this freaking long to pick up one of her stories because after barely surviving 𝐋𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡 and 𝐔𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐥 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡 — I am 𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐑 haunted (in the best way) by her (and can’t wait to explore her backlist and all future releases)!
January 5, 2026
When Catriona’s younger sister is forced to marry Aiden O’Conner - a man she knows to be dangerous - to settle their father’s gambling debt, she comes up with a plan to stop it.. a solution of sorts..
She forces him to marry her instead.
She thought she knew what he was capable of- what she didn’t know was that he was an enforcer for the Irish mafia
Aiden made it pretty clear that he’s only getting married once - Catriona is his, until death do they part
——
These characters were so beautifully written
I am OBSESSED with Aiden…
Because what do you mean you tattooed my name on you knowing I hate your guts?? I would’ve been in a puddle at his feet immediately 🤭
Catriona, as hardheaded as she was, I have to give it to her. She set out to do something and she was determined to see it through
Point me in the direction of the ’Until Death support group’
That last bit almost took me out completely
I had tears in my eyes with my jaw on the FLOOR
That plot twist almost broke my neck. I couldn’t have predicted that at all
My first 5 ⭐️ read of the year & it was 100% worth the wait
She forces him to marry her instead.
She thought she knew what he was capable of- what she didn’t know was that he was an enforcer for the Irish mafia
Aiden made it pretty clear that he’s only getting married once - Catriona is his, until death do they part
——
These characters were so beautifully written
I am OBSESSED with Aiden…
Because what do you mean you tattooed my name on you knowing I hate your guts?? I would’ve been in a puddle at his feet immediately 🤭
Catriona, as hardheaded as she was, I have to give it to her. She set out to do something and she was determined to see it through
Point me in the direction of the ’Until Death support group’
That last bit almost took me out completely
I had tears in my eyes with my jaw on the FLOOR
That plot twist almost broke my neck. I couldn’t have predicted that at all
My first 5 ⭐️ read of the year & it was 100% worth the wait
January 6, 2026
Omg what a book! I didn't want to stop reading, but my house, kids and sleep needed some attention, unfortunately lol.
I love mafia books. But this one it gave me so many feelings. The MMC and FMC I absolutely loved them both, the FMC because she is a fucking badass and don't let anyone getting in the way of her plans. The MMC, the ruthless mafia boss, is a monster but not for her and the things he says to her got me melting away honestly.. I got so many highlights for all the things he says it's absurd. Where everyone fears him, she just looks him in the eye and says what she want to say even without blinking and it got him falling really fast. I loved the tension, the pulling to each other but to stubborn to give in, the banter with him and his friends.
Yes there is happing a lot of things, there is heartwarming moments, secrets, deals, betrayal, pain and loss, but also happiness.
And you just need to read it for yourself, period!⁸
I love mafia books. But this one it gave me so many feelings. The MMC and FMC I absolutely loved them both, the FMC because she is a fucking badass and don't let anyone getting in the way of her plans. The MMC, the ruthless mafia boss, is a monster but not for her and the things he says to her got me melting away honestly.. I got so many highlights for all the things he says it's absurd. Where everyone fears him, she just looks him in the eye and says what she want to say even without blinking and it got him falling really fast. I loved the tension, the pulling to each other but to stubborn to give in, the banter with him and his friends.
Yes there is happing a lot of things, there is heartwarming moments, secrets, deals, betrayal, pain and loss, but also happiness.
And you just need to read it for yourself, period!⁸
January 14, 2026
This one pulled me in fast and kept the pace tight the whole way through. Reading Little Death first adds depth to their connection and makes everything hit harder.
The forced marriage setup creates constant tension and sharp banter. Cat and Aiden are a volatile mix, and their chemistry never lets up. Cat is strong, stubborn, and driven by the need for answers. Aiden is morally grey, controlled, and shaped by survival, but his devotion runs deep.
The plot continues to escalate without losing momentum. The twists land at the right moments, especially the dinner scene, and the mystery keeps you guessing.
The spice is intense and well placed, and the emotional moments carry real weight. The side characters add depth without stealing focus, and the story leaves you genuinely curious about what comes next.
The forced marriage setup creates constant tension and sharp banter. Cat and Aiden are a volatile mix, and their chemistry never lets up. Cat is strong, stubborn, and driven by the need for answers. Aiden is morally grey, controlled, and shaped by survival, but his devotion runs deep.
The plot continues to escalate without losing momentum. The twists land at the right moments, especially the dinner scene, and the mystery keeps you guessing.
The spice is intense and well placed, and the emotional moments carry real weight. The side characters add depth without stealing focus, and the story leaves you genuinely curious about what comes next.
January 7, 2026
I devoured this! Continuing on from the novella ‘little death’ Catriona sacrifices herself to save her sister from a forced marriage into a mafia family.
This girl Is bad ass !! I love a strong FMC and Catriona was that and more! Aiden is to die for! He is morally black, obsessed perfection! Their dynamic was so hot!
Absolutely loved it!
This girl Is bad ass !! I love a strong FMC and Catriona was that and more! Aiden is to die for! He is morally black, obsessed perfection! Their dynamic was so hot!
Absolutely loved it!
January 18, 2026
ARC REVIEW!!
I absolutely loved Catriona and Aiden’s story. I love how it started out with Cat needing to find the truth and seeking justice for her mother- because she couldn’t possibly have been murdered. I loved the relationship between Cat and Aiden evolve from pure hate to this wonderful and amazing relationship.
Rory got everything and more that he deserved, same with Cian. And Mary for the win! She’s amazing and I sooo appreciate her patience and planning over the years.
That plot twist at the dinner party! So not who I thought killed Deirdre. But, that was the stone needed for Cat to really become who she needed to be. Especially if she turns out being the Irish Mafia Queen.
We’ll find out in Kiss of Death when the story continues!
I absolutely loved Catriona and Aiden’s story. I love how it started out with Cat needing to find the truth and seeking justice for her mother- because she couldn’t possibly have been murdered. I loved the relationship between Cat and Aiden evolve from pure hate to this wonderful and amazing relationship.
Rory got everything and more that he deserved, same with Cian. And Mary for the win! She’s amazing and I sooo appreciate her patience and planning over the years.
That plot twist at the dinner party! So not who I thought killed Deirdre. But, that was the stone needed for Cat to really become who she needed to be. Especially if she turns out being the Irish Mafia Queen.
We’ll find out in Kiss of Death when the story continues!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2026
For a dark romance it wasn’t very dark potentially? But it had a plot which was good. Still enjoyed
January 23, 2026
4.5 stars
This story is fast paced and incredibly captivating.
Since reading Little Death I was a fan of Nicole Blanchard's writing style.
It was hard to put down and I couldn't read fast enough. Can't wait to read more in this series!
This story is fast paced and incredibly captivating.
Since reading Little Death I was a fan of Nicole Blanchard's writing style.
It was hard to put down and I couldn't read fast enough. Can't wait to read more in this series!
January 7, 2026
4.25 ⭐️
If you like mafia romance you will love this book! It hit all the points you want it to hit!
Truthfully I have not read that many mafia romances, I read the made men series and loved those and was in search for another good one. I couldn’t find one that sparked my interest, I DNF’d a few along the way. It made me lose interest and go back to some other genres.
But then I was picked as an ARC reader for this here book and oh boy am I glad I was! This here reminded of how GOOD these tropes can be! I mean arranged marriage, the tension, the banter. The WHERES MY WIFE of it all had me feening for this man and this book!
This is definitely something to add to your BTR, whether you are a fan of dark romance or not, you will like this!
Due to the violence of it all this falls under “dark” romance but it’s on the lighter side for sure. So if you’re someone who doesn’t like full on dark romance, maybe want to dip your toe in just a little, this is a great place to start!
If you like mafia romance you will love this book! It hit all the points you want it to hit!
Truthfully I have not read that many mafia romances, I read the made men series and loved those and was in search for another good one. I couldn’t find one that sparked my interest, I DNF’d a few along the way. It made me lose interest and go back to some other genres.
But then I was picked as an ARC reader for this here book and oh boy am I glad I was! This here reminded of how GOOD these tropes can be! I mean arranged marriage, the tension, the banter. The WHERES MY WIFE of it all had me feening for this man and this book!
This is definitely something to add to your BTR, whether you are a fan of dark romance or not, you will like this!
Due to the violence of it all this falls under “dark” romance but it’s on the lighter side for sure. So if you’re someone who doesn’t like full on dark romance, maybe want to dip your toe in just a little, this is a great place to start!
January 13, 2026
ARC review
Mafia Romance with forced marriage
Thought this was a great read. Loved the strong powerful FMC that makes her MMC crumble.
Just Enough spice to keep you reading🌶️🌶️
Mafia story
Blanchard created a great story, can be read as a stand alone or even better read Little Death that gives you a first hand insight of the FMC and MMC first spicy encounter.
Definitely recommend
@nicoleblanchard
Mafia Romance with forced marriage
Thought this was a great read. Loved the strong powerful FMC that makes her MMC crumble.
Just Enough spice to keep you reading🌶️🌶️
Mafia story
Blanchard created a great story, can be read as a stand alone or even better read Little Death that gives you a first hand insight of the FMC and MMC first spicy encounter.
Definitely recommend
@nicoleblanchard
January 6, 2026
I devoured this book in a single sitting. From the very first chapter, it had its claws in me, and I couldn’t tear myself away. Every page pulled me deeper into a dark, dangerous world filled with tension, secrets, and a romance that burned as fiercely as it hurt.
The story picks up after the events of "Little Death", following Catriona and Aiden as their lives collide in the most brutal way. Catriona’s father is drowning in debt owed to Aiden’s clan, and he knows there’s only one currency the mob will accept when money runs out. To save himself, he offers up one of his daughters as a bride. What he doesn’t expect is Catriona stepping forward to take her sister’s place, fully aware that she’s tying herself to the most feared man she’s ever known.
Catriona is everything I love in a heroine. She’s sharp, defiant, and unbreakable. She refuses to bow, even when surrounded by men who tremble at Aiden’s name. She challenges him at every turn, pushes back against his control, and refuses to let her voice be taken from her again. Beneath that fire is a woman driven by grief and unanswered questions, especially surrounding her mother’s death—questions she’s willing to risk everything to uncover.
Aiden is darkness given form. An enforcer raised by violence, shaped by loss, and molded into a weapon long before he had a choice. He’s ruthless, calculating, and deadly—but his control begins to fracture the moment Catriona becomes his wife. What starts as resentment and resistance slowly transforms into obsession and devotion. Against his will, she becomes his weakness, and eventually, his reason. Where others see a monster, she sees the man underneath—and he gives her something she’s never truly had before: agency.
Their relationship is explosive. The forced marriage trope is executed beautifully, packed with sharp banter, power struggles, and undeniable chemistry. They make each other miserable in the best way at first, both too stubborn to surrender, yet unable to stay away. The tension between them is constant, and when it finally shifts, it’s intense and earned. They don’t soften each other—they sharpen each other. By the end, there’s no doubt they would burn everything down to protect what they’ve built together.
The plot itself is tightly paced and unpredictable, layering mob politics, family betrayal, and long-buried secrets. Just when I thought I had things figured out, the story pulled the rug out
The story picks up after the events of "Little Death", following Catriona and Aiden as their lives collide in the most brutal way. Catriona’s father is drowning in debt owed to Aiden’s clan, and he knows there’s only one currency the mob will accept when money runs out. To save himself, he offers up one of his daughters as a bride. What he doesn’t expect is Catriona stepping forward to take her sister’s place, fully aware that she’s tying herself to the most feared man she’s ever known.
Catriona is everything I love in a heroine. She’s sharp, defiant, and unbreakable. She refuses to bow, even when surrounded by men who tremble at Aiden’s name. She challenges him at every turn, pushes back against his control, and refuses to let her voice be taken from her again. Beneath that fire is a woman driven by grief and unanswered questions, especially surrounding her mother’s death—questions she’s willing to risk everything to uncover.
Aiden is darkness given form. An enforcer raised by violence, shaped by loss, and molded into a weapon long before he had a choice. He’s ruthless, calculating, and deadly—but his control begins to fracture the moment Catriona becomes his wife. What starts as resentment and resistance slowly transforms into obsession and devotion. Against his will, she becomes his weakness, and eventually, his reason. Where others see a monster, she sees the man underneath—and he gives her something she’s never truly had before: agency.
Their relationship is explosive. The forced marriage trope is executed beautifully, packed with sharp banter, power struggles, and undeniable chemistry. They make each other miserable in the best way at first, both too stubborn to surrender, yet unable to stay away. The tension between them is constant, and when it finally shifts, it’s intense and earned. They don’t soften each other—they sharpen each other. By the end, there’s no doubt they would burn everything down to protect what they’ve built together.
The plot itself is tightly paced and unpredictable, layering mob politics, family betrayal, and long-buried secrets. Just when I thought I had things figured out, the story pulled the rug out
January 6, 2026
My Queen Nicole Blanchard has done it AGAIN! My gosh this book was absolutely insane and had me hooked from start to finish. Firstly I genuinely recommend reading the prequel Little Death before reading this book because it just levels up the experience tenfold, plus it’s full of fun spice (some crawl to me action), and gives off amazing hate to love energy that really is the foundation of their entire relationship. This plot was amazing from the start, because how she managed to basically trick him into marrying her was insane. This book is filled with their fun and flirty banter, and incredible plot lines as they navigate their marriage, trying not to kill each other. But stakes are raised when his boss Cian finds out what he’s done and my god things just go crazy from there. The amount of plot twists and the impact of each one was just insane. That dinner scene was chaos that had me clinging onto the edge of my seat devouring every word. Because the plot was just so well thought out, intensely thrilling yet emotional and perfectly executed. And this book isn’t all plot, the characters are so compelling and Aiden and Catriona’s chemistry was just through the roof. They were enemies to lovers done perfectly, and I loved the touch of morally grey in Catriona because she’s exactly the type of strong fmc I was looking for. Aidan is said to be morally black, in my opinion, he’s actually such a sweetheart deep inside. He’s not psycho naturally, he’s a product of his traumatising childhood experiences and what life has forced him to become in order to survive. In truth, this man loves. Very. Very. Hard. He loves his mother but he’s also had feelings for Catriona for a very long time he’s just afraid of the consequences of admitting it. He is such a complex character, while also being a possessive and obsessive asshole at times, and I loved reading about him. I devoured this book, and I loved everything about it. I loved the side characters too and can’t wait to read about Maras story! I give this a solid 5/5, and is a must read for dark romance fans who love a bit of mystery.
January 4, 2026
First I just want to say, I ATE THIS UP! I finished this in a day, I was completely engrossed in this story, I could not put this book down.
Continuing where Catriona and Aiden left off after Little Death, her father owed Aiden’s clan money- and a lot of it. He knew he’d never be able to pay off the mob, he needed more time, so he knew the way to keep himself alive and to get Aiden what he wanted, was to sell off one of his daughters to become his bride. They completely loathed each other, but now she is stuck with him, and she’ll fight him every single minute.
Catriona is strong willed, she will talk back and doesn’t cower in fear. When big men would shake at the knees to Aiden, she gives him a piece of her mind. She’ll do anything to solve what happened to her mother, even if it puts her in danger.
Aiden being the enforcer, he’s brutal, feared, not to be messed with. But somewhere along the way, he gives in to her and will do anything to keep her safe. He tries his hardest to fight her, but ends up worshipping her instead.
These two although had so much tension in the beginning, ended up being the perfect couple. He’d burn the world for her, and she’d do the same for him. She always had power taken away from her, and he gave it back to her.
Overall, I was so obsessed with this story, I was so shocked towards the ending, and I was so happy they got there happily ever after. I can’t wait to read the next book!
Continuing where Catriona and Aiden left off after Little Death, her father owed Aiden’s clan money- and a lot of it. He knew he’d never be able to pay off the mob, he needed more time, so he knew the way to keep himself alive and to get Aiden what he wanted, was to sell off one of his daughters to become his bride. They completely loathed each other, but now she is stuck with him, and she’ll fight him every single minute.
Catriona is strong willed, she will talk back and doesn’t cower in fear. When big men would shake at the knees to Aiden, she gives him a piece of her mind. She’ll do anything to solve what happened to her mother, even if it puts her in danger.
Aiden being the enforcer, he’s brutal, feared, not to be messed with. But somewhere along the way, he gives in to her and will do anything to keep her safe. He tries his hardest to fight her, but ends up worshipping her instead.
These two although had so much tension in the beginning, ended up being the perfect couple. He’d burn the world for her, and she’d do the same for him. She always had power taken away from her, and he gave it back to her.
Overall, I was so obsessed with this story, I was so shocked towards the ending, and I was so happy they got there happily ever after. I can’t wait to read the next book!
January 16, 2026
Ok. So, this book has me reeling from all the thoughts and temptations of thinking I could decode it before the suspense, but, yes, I was not able to do that. Something just appeared from the left corner and made me happy with the plot and how it all worked out for these two. Aiden & Catriona are made for each other, their darkness calls to each other in all the delicious ways they don’t want it to.
I loved how engaging the plot was and how beautifully Nicole executed it. Catriona was amazing, and I adore how well she fit in with Aiden and her role in this mafia world. She is not to be messed with. The banter between these two was a perfectly delightful and great addition to the story. They did make me laugh a lot, and with the way their characters were, I was never in doubt about their dedication to each other. Perfect.
Aiden calling her “bhean chéile” is breathtaking, and then there was this scene where he was going mad and asked, “Where. The. Fuck. Is. My. Wife.” I was a goner at this point. Drooling me. And then the dinner, oh man, you think what can go wrong? Just keep thinking. Mind-blowing.
Also, the immediate interactive characters left a mark too and now I want to see their stories. I am very excited to see how Mara will do in her book. She will be one fierce and dangerous FMC that this dark romance genre needs. Well, that’s my hope. Fingers crossed. Read the books in order and enjoy them all.
I loved how engaging the plot was and how beautifully Nicole executed it. Catriona was amazing, and I adore how well she fit in with Aiden and her role in this mafia world. She is not to be messed with. The banter between these two was a perfectly delightful and great addition to the story. They did make me laugh a lot, and with the way their characters were, I was never in doubt about their dedication to each other. Perfect.
Aiden calling her “bhean chéile” is breathtaking, and then there was this scene where he was going mad and asked, “Where. The. Fuck. Is. My. Wife.” I was a goner at this point. Drooling me. And then the dinner, oh man, you think what can go wrong? Just keep thinking. Mind-blowing.
Also, the immediate interactive characters left a mark too and now I want to see their stories. I am very excited to see how Mara will do in her book. She will be one fierce and dangerous FMC that this dark romance genre needs. Well, that’s my hope. Fingers crossed. Read the books in order and enjoy them all.
January 24, 2026
This story took a turn from the normal mafia stories I read. Both of them came from a different culture, both Louisiana and Ireland are cultures I haven't read about a lot. Aiden's backstory is so sad, I almost feel like he isn't morally black, and he isn't really. His morals are just all about Catriona and the people he cares about. Those aren't a lot, which is why he might be seen as morally black.
I would have loved to see more about Catriona and her law background. As a law student, she would have had so much fun revising the contract between her and Aiden. She wasn't all that fleshed out in my opinion. She had so much potential and a lot of it went to waste, such as her search for her mother's killer. I would have loved it if we got to see more of her world mix with Aiden's, to see how they shine together, coming from opposite worlds.
I did like the storyline with Aiden's revenge against Cain. Everything he did for his mother is so sweet, even if it killed him inside. However, it did feel like the final 10% of the story could have been scrapped. The story felt finished by then, and I felt like everything was resolved. I do hope to see more of the side characters, such as Mara. I would love to read about her, growing up in the mafia world and trying to survive it as a single (but not really single) girl.
Thank you Nicole Blanchard and Valentine PR for the e-ARC. All thoughts are my own.
I would have loved to see more about Catriona and her law background. As a law student, she would have had so much fun revising the contract between her and Aiden. She wasn't all that fleshed out in my opinion. She had so much potential and a lot of it went to waste, such as her search for her mother's killer. I would have loved it if we got to see more of her world mix with Aiden's, to see how they shine together, coming from opposite worlds.
I did like the storyline with Aiden's revenge against Cain. Everything he did for his mother is so sweet, even if it killed him inside. However, it did feel like the final 10% of the story could have been scrapped. The story felt finished by then, and I felt like everything was resolved. I do hope to see more of the side characters, such as Mara. I would love to read about her, growing up in the mafia world and trying to survive it as a single (but not really single) girl.
Thank you Nicole Blanchard and Valentine PR for the e-ARC. All thoughts are my own.
January 4, 2026
Huge thank you to Nicole Blanchard and Greys Promo for the gifted e-arc copy in exchange for my honest review review.
This book snagged my attention from the very beginning. I absolutely loved the idea of Catriona taking matters into her own hands when it came to dealing with Aiden. Not only is she protective of her family, she also is a girl that isn’t afraid to go toe to toe with him either. Catriona is the type of FMC that doesn’t back down when things get messy and I honestly love that about her. She is Aiden’s perfect match in every sense of the word and I loved seeing their dynamic together. The bickering and banter, the tension, the protective and possessiveness that Aiden shows just had me on my toes the entire time.
When it came down to the darker parts of the story such as the Irish mob, I felt like Nicole did a great job at making the atmosphere feel thick and even a bit uncomfortable as we had to read about our main characters and all of the things they had to do and were even forced to do. It truly was a huge, messy game of “who can we trust/believe?” And i honestly didn’t see that plot twist coming. When everything was said and done, you could tell how much Aiden just wanted to get Catriona out of that dangerous lifestyle but these two literally are meant to be and I loved seeing how their relationship together bloomed into something beautiful!
This book snagged my attention from the very beginning. I absolutely loved the idea of Catriona taking matters into her own hands when it came to dealing with Aiden. Not only is she protective of her family, she also is a girl that isn’t afraid to go toe to toe with him either. Catriona is the type of FMC that doesn’t back down when things get messy and I honestly love that about her. She is Aiden’s perfect match in every sense of the word and I loved seeing their dynamic together. The bickering and banter, the tension, the protective and possessiveness that Aiden shows just had me on my toes the entire time.
When it came down to the darker parts of the story such as the Irish mob, I felt like Nicole did a great job at making the atmosphere feel thick and even a bit uncomfortable as we had to read about our main characters and all of the things they had to do and were even forced to do. It truly was a huge, messy game of “who can we trust/believe?” And i honestly didn’t see that plot twist coming. When everything was said and done, you could tell how much Aiden just wanted to get Catriona out of that dangerous lifestyle but these two literally are meant to be and I loved seeing how their relationship together bloomed into something beautiful!
January 5, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Make sure you check your triggers on this one because it is a Dark Romance through and through. Also, if you didn’t read Little Death (Novella) before this, I would recommend doing that first. I can’t believe I am going to say this but there were times when the s3x scenes were too much for me? There was a lot of hate f**king and it wore on me. This is probably a me problem?? I would say I really liked the 2nd half of this book a lot more than the 1st half and I loved that King and Tessa made an appearance.
Catriona lost her mom 6 months ago and life has not been the same since. She is desperate to find out what truly happened to her because there is no way it was an accident. Only, she didn’t know searching for answers to her mom’s death, would put her on a path of great danger.
Aiden is a dog for the leader of the Irish Mafia. What Cian wants done, Aiden does it, no questions asked. Aiden is sent to New Orleans to collect on some debts for the Irish Mob when he runs into Catriona.
✨ What to Expect ✨
🖤 Dark Romance
🍀 Irish Mafia Romance
💍 Forced Marriage
⚔️ Enemies to Lovers
🔪 Touch her and die energy
🩶 Morally Grey MMC
🖋️ Tattoos
👑 “My Wife”
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Make sure you check your triggers on this one because it is a Dark Romance through and through. Also, if you didn’t read Little Death (Novella) before this, I would recommend doing that first. I can’t believe I am going to say this but there were times when the s3x scenes were too much for me? There was a lot of hate f**king and it wore on me. This is probably a me problem?? I would say I really liked the 2nd half of this book a lot more than the 1st half and I loved that King and Tessa made an appearance.
Catriona lost her mom 6 months ago and life has not been the same since. She is desperate to find out what truly happened to her because there is no way it was an accident. Only, she didn’t know searching for answers to her mom’s death, would put her on a path of great danger.
Aiden is a dog for the leader of the Irish Mafia. What Cian wants done, Aiden does it, no questions asked. Aiden is sent to New Orleans to collect on some debts for the Irish Mob when he runs into Catriona.
✨ What to Expect ✨
🖤 Dark Romance
🍀 Irish Mafia Romance
💍 Forced Marriage
⚔️ Enemies to Lovers
🔪 Touch her and die energy
🩶 Morally Grey MMC
🖋️ Tattoos
👑 “My Wife”
January 5, 2026
Until Death by @authornicoleblanchard
Thank you so much for the ARC @authornicoleblanchard - I was obsessed!!!
Anyone need a new dark, dangerous, morally grey book boyfriend?? Aiden O’Connor may be the ideal candidate and he is perfect. There is no doubt about it he is red flag but absolutely perfect and I loved him 🥵.
Catrina is everything I love in a FMC too. Properly strong, feisty and will bring anyone to knees. I could see why Aiden was obsessed with her (I was too - I want to be her bestie).
This is a mafia romance but with a twist. It’s not a simple sweet naive FMC needs rescuing by the morally grey MMC. Nope our girl Catrina got her own story going on and she isn’t involving Aiden. Loved her for that!!! Loads of sub plots also going on with side characters that I desperately wanted to be involved in too - basically I kind of want to live in this book. Is that possible @authornicoleblanchard
Overarching point of this post; Read Little Death now as the prequel for Until Death and then you will be ready to immediately read Until Death on the 8th. Then we can all wait together for Kiss of Death when that’s released!!
Thank you so much for the ARC @authornicoleblanchard - I was obsessed!!!
Anyone need a new dark, dangerous, morally grey book boyfriend?? Aiden O’Connor may be the ideal candidate and he is perfect. There is no doubt about it he is red flag but absolutely perfect and I loved him 🥵.
Catrina is everything I love in a FMC too. Properly strong, feisty and will bring anyone to knees. I could see why Aiden was obsessed with her (I was too - I want to be her bestie).
This is a mafia romance but with a twist. It’s not a simple sweet naive FMC needs rescuing by the morally grey MMC. Nope our girl Catrina got her own story going on and she isn’t involving Aiden. Loved her for that!!! Loads of sub plots also going on with side characters that I desperately wanted to be involved in too - basically I kind of want to live in this book. Is that possible @authornicoleblanchard
Overarching point of this post; Read Little Death now as the prequel for Until Death and then you will be ready to immediately read Until Death on the 8th. Then we can all wait together for Kiss of Death when that’s released!!
February 18, 2026
Notes for me
Aiden - Irish mafia enforcer
Catriona - father is Senator Rory Gallagher
Elizabeth - Catriona’s younger sister in college.
Picks up six months after Little Death.
In Little Death C attends a masquerade party at her old home, which A now owns. She wants to find info about her mom’s death. She meets and spends the night with
A, but sneaks out of his bed before he wakes up.
Rory owes Cian, Irish mob leader, a large sum of money. He offers his daughter Elizabeth. Says his older daughter is a handful, but E will behave. Rory only cares for his own safety.
Aiden wants to say no, but he’s intrigued. He’s tired of fighting for Cian. Sounds like Cian is preventing A from seeing his mom back in Ireland. He misses his mom so much. If he marries he can go back to Ireland so his family can meet his wife.
Dinner with Rory, Aiden and the two sisters. Aiden announces to Elizabeth they will marry. Catriona is furious and protective of her sister. Offers herself instead. He refuses telling her jealousy isn’t a good color on her.
Day of the wedding Catriona takes Elizabeth’s place.
He’s cruel to her saying it was one night between them and didn’t mean anything. Did she really think it’d make him change his plans?
She takes her sister’s place.
It’s a long book.
Totally safe
Aiden - Irish mafia enforcer
Catriona - father is Senator Rory Gallagher
Elizabeth - Catriona’s younger sister in college.
Picks up six months after Little Death.
In Little Death C attends a masquerade party at her old home, which A now owns. She wants to find info about her mom’s death. She meets and spends the night with
A, but sneaks out of his bed before he wakes up.
Rory owes Cian, Irish mob leader, a large sum of money. He offers his daughter Elizabeth. Says his older daughter is a handful, but E will behave. Rory only cares for his own safety.
Aiden wants to say no, but he’s intrigued. He’s tired of fighting for Cian. Sounds like Cian is preventing A from seeing his mom back in Ireland. He misses his mom so much. If he marries he can go back to Ireland so his family can meet his wife.
Dinner with Rory, Aiden and the two sisters. Aiden announces to Elizabeth they will marry. Catriona is furious and protective of her sister. Offers herself instead. He refuses telling her jealousy isn’t a good color on her.
Day of the wedding Catriona takes Elizabeth’s place.
He’s cruel to her saying it was one night between them and didn’t mean anything. Did she really think it’d make him change his plans?
She takes her sister’s place.
It’s a long book.
Totally safe
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2026
~Arc Review~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶.5
~Until Death~The Queenmakers Series #1~Nicole Blanchard~
"Because if I’m married to the devil, I won’t win by playing by his rules."
♡Irish M@fia & a forced marriage with a twist...sign me TF up every time! I knew I was going to eat this book up after reading Little Death which was the prequel novella to this story. I highly recommend starting with the prequel for a little back story into Aiden & Catorina!
I love an MMC that is only sweet for her but also makes her work for that touch of sweetness. Aiden is 100% that & more. The back & forth banter in this story was chefs kiss & the spice was spicy! Strong FMCs that can hold thier own no matter what life throws at them are my favorite as well! Catriona is on a path in this book & she will do whatever it takes to get what she wants no matter what stands in her way.
If you love darker m@fia romance books, with strong characters, a great story, & banter for days look no further!♡
~As Always Happy Reading~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶.5
~Until Death~The Queenmakers Series #1~Nicole Blanchard~
"Because if I’m married to the devil, I won’t win by playing by his rules."
♡Irish M@fia & a forced marriage with a twist...sign me TF up every time! I knew I was going to eat this book up after reading Little Death which was the prequel novella to this story. I highly recommend starting with the prequel for a little back story into Aiden & Catorina!
I love an MMC that is only sweet for her but also makes her work for that touch of sweetness. Aiden is 100% that & more. The back & forth banter in this story was chefs kiss & the spice was spicy! Strong FMCs that can hold thier own no matter what life throws at them are my favorite as well! Catriona is on a path in this book & she will do whatever it takes to get what she wants no matter what stands in her way.
If you love darker m@fia romance books, with strong characters, a great story, & banter for days look no further!♡
~As Always Happy Reading~
January 8, 2026
This was such a good book! I adored the intense connection between Aiden and Catriona. The banterrr and need for control had me blushing harddd. The worship and praise in this book was at an all time high 😮💨. These two were constantly burning for each other.
Aiden is possessive, controlling, and full of filth. Despite all this, this man is sinfully delicious. The push and pull made the passion between them so much more intense. Even though Aiden acts as though he doesn’t care, this man worships the ground that Catriona walks on. He shares his money, protects her with his life, and eventually falls in love with her.
Catriona is a strong as hell female character who puts herself in harms way to protect those she loves. She’s stubborn, mouthy, and fearful of nothing. The way in which she stands up to Aiden and speaks her mind had me appreciating her like no other. She demands respect and will stop at nothing to get it.
Aiden is possessive, controlling, and full of filth. Despite all this, this man is sinfully delicious. The push and pull made the passion between them so much more intense. Even though Aiden acts as though he doesn’t care, this man worships the ground that Catriona walks on. He shares his money, protects her with his life, and eventually falls in love with her.
Catriona is a strong as hell female character who puts herself in harms way to protect those she loves. She’s stubborn, mouthy, and fearful of nothing. The way in which she stands up to Aiden and speaks her mind had me appreciating her like no other. She demands respect and will stop at nothing to get it.
January 23, 2026
Book 1 in the Queenmakers series: Aiden and Catriona. This is a forced marriage, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, “my wife”, morally grey FMCs, morally black hero MMC, gets her name tattooed on himself, hate to love, mafia enforcer x senators daughter, bully, male groveling, mystery subplot, billionaire, verbal sparring, touch her/him and d!e, “who hurt you?”, dark Irish mafia romance.
There is a prequel that doesn’t technically need to be read BUT I do recommend reading it to get a better understanding of the characters, their roles, and how Aiden and Catriona first met.
Aiden and Catriona are the very definition of “power couple” (in my opinion). They are both incredible strong, driven, protective, and cunning… and most definitely morally grey. Even though they started as enemies they became a force to be reckoned with. Such a great story and journey between the two of them. I definitely recommend this book if you are a fan of any of the tropes listed.
There is a prequel that doesn’t technically need to be read BUT I do recommend reading it to get a better understanding of the characters, their roles, and how Aiden and Catriona first met.
Aiden and Catriona are the very definition of “power couple” (in my opinion). They are both incredible strong, driven, protective, and cunning… and most definitely morally grey. Even though they started as enemies they became a force to be reckoned with. Such a great story and journey between the two of them. I definitely recommend this book if you are a fan of any of the tropes listed.
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